Ealing Trailfinders' Brave Effort Falls Short in Premiership Cup Semi-Final
Ealing Trailfinders put up a valiant fight but ultimately fell short in their attempt to tame the Leicester Tigers, losing 29-21 in the Premiership Cup semi-final at Trailfinders Sports Club on Sunday, 18 February 2024.
The match saw impressive tries from Will Goodrick-Clarke and Mike Willemse, along with three penalties from Billy Twelvetrees, showcasing the Trailfinders' determination and skill.
Ealing started strong, dominating the scrum and forcing two Leicester penalties within kicking range. Twelvetrees successfully converted both, giving the Trailfinders an early lead. However, a professional foul by Bobby De Wee resulted in a yellow card, shifting the game's momentum.
Leicester capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Phil Cokanasiga scoring the first try, breaking through the Trailfinders' defense. Jamie Shillcock added the conversion, pushing the Tigers ahead. Shortly after, Finn Theobald-Thomas extended Leicester’s lead, driving over the line from a rolling maul, though Shillcock missed the conversion, leaving the score at 6-12 by halftime.
The second half saw Trailfinders nearly take the lead as Dan Lancaster’s delayed pass set up Max Bodilly, who brilliantly navigated the Leicester line to assist Craig Hampson. Unfortunately, Hampson knocked on, missing a crucial opportunity. However, Twelvetrees reduced the deficit to 12-9 with another penalty following continued Leicester infringements.
Ealing's dominance at the scrum resulted in Leicester's Dan Richardson being sin-binned. This advantage allowed Goodrick-Clarke to score the home side's first try, though Twelvetrees' conversion hit the posts and missed.
Despite their efforts, Leicester quickly tallied 10 points, including a second try from Cokanasiga off an interception and a penalty from Shillcock, making it 22-14.
Undeterred, Trailfinders fought back with Willemse scoring after successive phases. Twelvetrees' conversion brought them within one point, 22-21, with just seven minutes left.
In a heartbreaking turn, another interception allowed Leicester’s Matt Scott to score under the posts, sealing the game. Shillcock’s conversion ended the match at 29-21.
Ealing Trailfinders’ performance was commendable, reflecting their resilience and spirit, despite the final outcome. The match was a testament to their hard work and determination throughout the season.
